Kenya’s decision to deport four Turkish nationals has been condemned by several human rights organizations, citing concerns over the violation of international refugee laws. The Police Reforms Working Group expressed shock at the involvement of Kenyan law enforcement and foreign affairs agencies in the repatriation of Mustafa Genç, Oztürk Uzun, Alparslan Taşçı, and Hüseyin Yeşilsu to Turkey.
The group emphasized that the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits returning refugees to places where they may face harm, has been a fundamental aspect of international humanitarian law for over seventy years. They argued that Kenya’s actions violated both national and international legal standards and could not be justified by diplomatic, commercial, or trade interests.
They further noted that international law allows the return of refugees only if they pose a threat to national security or are found guilty of serious crimes after due legal process. The organizations suggested that instead of deporting the asylum seekers, Kenya could have sought a third country for their safe resettlement.
The rights groups warned that this action not only endangers the four individuals but also undermines Kenya’s reputation as a safe haven for refugees, especially as the country recently joined the United Nations Human Rights Council. The incident casts doubt on Kenya’s long-standing commitment to humanitarian protection for the approximately 780,000 refugees within its borders.
The Kenyan government confirmed that the deportation took place at the request of Turkey. Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Korir Sing’Oei stated that Turkish authorities had assured that the four would be treated with dignity according to national and international law. He added that Kenya would not comment further on the case while an inter-agency review is ongoing.
Seven Turkish citizens, including Mustafa Genç, his son Abdullah, and others, were abducted by unknown individuals in Nairobi’s Kileleshwa area. While three were later released, the other four were deported to Turkey. The group, who were teachers and registered asylum seekers, were reportedly intercepted and forced into vehicles by masked men.
Necdet Seyitoğlu, one of those abducted and later released, described how they were driven around for hours before he was dropped off and given money to find his way back. Human rights advocates criticized Kenya’s handling of the situation, urging adherence to international obligations and the protection of refugee rights.
